A Gourmet’s Guide to Eating Escargot

Escargot may be one of France’s most iconic delicacies, but it remains a mystery for many diners. This dish is celebrated for its delicacy and charm, but for many, the name alone sparks curiosity and intrigue, which is why many hesitate to taste it.

At La Petite Maison Dubai, we celebrate the beauty of French cuisine and this means making classics like escargot craveable and unforgettable. Enjoying this delicacy at our restaurant is an opportunity to connect with a tradition that has delighted diners for generations and discover a delectable classic that's both timeless and fresh.

What is escargot?

Escargot, the French name for edible land snails, has a history as rich as its flavour. The Romans were among the first to appreciate them as a delicacy, cultivating this seafood in specialised farms and preparing it with wine and milk to heighten their taste.

Escargot became popular in France during the Renaissance, when it earned a reputation as a staple dish at royal court banquets. It was also during this era that the edible snails became associated with sophistication and fine dining, cementing their place in French cuisine.

These snails are cultivated in different parts of France. The most popular are those found in Burgundy, called Helix pomatia, which are the main ingredients in escargots à la Bourguignonne.

Authentic escargots à la Bourguignonne or de Bourgogne feature fresh snails that are blanched in boiling water, rinsed in water, and cleaned thoroughly with a combination of water and vinegar. They are then cooked in butter, garlic, and parsley.

This French food can be enjoyed as an appetiser or main course. It’s best paired with a glass of red or white Burgundy, which you can easily find on the restaurant’swine menu.

A delicacy defined by flavour

Escargot soaks up the sauce, butter, and other ingredients it’s cooked in, so expect different flavours according to how it's prepared.

But what does escargot taste like when eaten without additional flavouring or garnishes? Some say it is similar to clams, while others describe it as tasting like fish or chicken with earthy flavors.

If you're wondering how to eat escargot, the first things you'll need are special tongs and a small two-pronged fork. Hold the shell in place with the tongs and use the fork to lift the tender meat.

Use your dominant hand for the fork and the other to hold the tongs.

It is best to avoid using your fingers, as the charm of eating escargots lies in the grace of the experience as much as in the taste.

You can savour the remaining juice and sauce with a piece of bread, which is typically served with this traditional French food.

An invitation to savour escargot in Dubai

Escargot in Dubai offers something truly distinctive in a city known for its diverse dining scene. This LPM Dubai menu classic carries the elegance of French gastronomy while feeling perfectly at home in a cosmopolitan setting.

Choosing to enjoy this French food in Dubai is more than trying a delicacy; it’s about embracing a tradition that speaks of refinement and cultural exchange.

At LPM Dubai, escargot is served in the spirit of French dining: thoughtfully and with a welcoming ambiance. The dish highlights timeless flavours and serves as an invitation to slow down and savour the food and ambience, which is lively yet intimate, designed for sharing food and conversation.

For anyone who wants to explore traditional French food in Dubai or simply enjoy an unforgettable evening, LPM Dubai offers the perfect introduction to a dish that has charmed generations.

Reserve a table at LPM Dubai to enjoy authentic French cuisine.